William L. Nieland was born on October 17, 1867, in Yankton County, South Dakota, to German immigrants Henry and Henrietta (Zeanter) Nieland. Henry, a homesteader since 1865, secured 160 acres for farming. William pursued farming as well, becoming a prosperous landowner with over 700 acres. He married Anna Madsen on December 14, 1891, and they had four children: Clara, Henrietta, Arthur, and Harry. A community-oriented individual, William served on the school board and was active in the Lutheran church and Woodmen of the World.
William L. Nieland.— During the early epoch in the development of Yankton County, William L. Nieland first opened his eyes to the light of day within its borders. He was born here on the 17th of October, 1867, and is a well-known representative of a worthy and honored pioneer family. His parents were Henry and Henrietta (Zeanter) Nieland, whose family numbered five children. The parents were natives of Germany and on coming to the United States settled in South Dakota in June, 1865. The father then secured a homestead claim of one hundred and sixty acres and, following the occupation of farming, he thus provided the needs and wants of his family. His death occurred about twelve years ago, but the mother is still living and is now sixty-two years of age. Like the others of the household, the son William L. attended the public schools of his native state and continued his studies until twenty-one years of age. He early began work in the fields and soon became familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. The occupation to which he was reared he chose as his own life work and has become one of the most prosperous farmers of his native county.
On the 14th of December, 1891, Mr. Nieland was united in marriage to Miss Anna Madsen, who was born in Denmark and was brought to this country by her parents, both of whom are now living upon a farm in Yankton County.
Mr. and Mrs. Nieland became the parents of four children, as follows: Clara L., Henrietta, Arthur E., and Harry E.
Mr. Nieland operates about one hundred and sixty acres of land and owns more than seven hundred acres. He has recently planted an orchard, having set out plum, cherry, and apple trees in the present year, 1903. The improvements of his farm are still in progress and he is continually directing his labors along lines that are proving of practical benefit and that contribute in large measure to the attractive appearance as well as to the success of his efforts. He has recently erected one of the best farm residences in the county and he also has large barns and other good outbuildings.
Politically, Mr. Nieland is independent, supporting the men whom he thinks best qualified for office, regardless of party affiliations. He has served for a number of years as a member of the school board and his efforts on behalf of education have been effective and beneficial. He belongs to the Woodmen of the World and to the Lutheran church and is always found on the side of progress, of right, and of justice. He stands as a high type of our American manhood and his life record is indicative of the splendid opportunities which the West offers to those who ally their interests with hers and who are not afraid to engage in the laborious work which fields need in bringing desirable returns.
Source: Robinson, Doane, History of South Dakota: together with mention of Citizens of South Dakota, [Logansport? IN] : B. F. Bowen, 1904.